Lake and McHenry Counties
Announcements & Highlights
Explore the latest gardening trends, techniques, and tools during this daylong series of seminars for gardeners of every skill level. Held annually, Gardenfest is sponsored by McHenry County College and the University of Illinois Extension McHenry County Master Gardeners. Tour the MCC Greenhouse and explore hydroponic and aquaponic systems. Improve skills in planting and tool maintenance. Gain practical tips for growing tomatoes, grapes, fruit trees, and more.
GardenExpo will be happening the same day as Gardenfest. It's open to the public at McHenry County College on April 11 from 9 – 3 for your shopping pleasure, no registration needed to attend the expo! Gardening advisors from the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners, MCC’s Center for Agrarian Learning, local garden centers, the Xerxes Society, the Wildflower Preservation and Propagation Committee, and others will also be on-site to answer questions. Expo address: McHenry County College 8900 Highway 14 Building B, Crystal Lake IL 60014
The Eight Dimensions of Wellness for Early Childcare Providers
Early childhood educators play an essential role in shaping the social, emotional, and physical development of young children—yet their own wellness is often overlooked. To support those who care for the youngest learners, a professional development training, “The Eight Dimensions of Wellness for Early Childcare Providers,” will be offered, providing 1.5 hours of Gateways credit to Illinois early childhood professionals.
Upcoming Programs
Dog Clinic: First Aid for Dogs
Join us for an informative session on canine first aid and learn essential skills to care for your furry friend in emergencies. Take home a first aid kit! Cost: $12 (cash ONLY, due at the clinic) NO DOGS!
Building Community Led Climate Resilience at Every Scale
This 90‑minute interactive workshop hosted by University of Illinois Extension, Lake County and led by Jessica Rudnick, PhD, helps Illinois residents make sense of what climate change means for our state today—and what we can do together to prepare for tomorrow.
4-H Green Communities 2026
Did you know that Illinois once had 14 million acres of trees, but now only has 5 million due to modern development? Illinois 4-H is partnering with Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts to plant oak trees across dozens of counties in Illinois this spring, and we need YOUR help!
Find Food. Share Support.
Pet-Friendly Landscaping
Dog Clinic: First Aid for Dogs
Birds of Prey
Connect. Learn. Grow
Plant Problems? Insects Invading? What's that Weed?
Call our Master Gardener Helpline and a U of I Extension Master Gardener will answer your questions at NO COST! From insects to pollinator gardens, crabgrass to milkweed, if you have a question, they can help!
Become a Master Naturalist
Volunteer as a Master Naturalist to facilitate conservation and restoration in your community and educate others about natural resources.
Eat well, stay active, and save money
Find tasty recipes, shopping tips, and activities to keep you and your family healthy.
4-H Youth Development
Commercial Agriculture
Consumer Economics
Family Life
Horticulture
Local Foods & Small Farms
Master Gardeners
Master Naturalist
Nutrition & Wellness
See the impact Extension makes in your community